Essential Checklist Before You Leave Krumlov

Before you depart, ensure you have the right gear for a day outdoors. The weather near the reservoir can be cooler than in the city center. You will be walking on wooden paths, so comfortable footwear is a must. Most visitors spend at least three to four hours at the site. Check the official tourism portal for any local event updates.

• Footwear: Wear sturdy sneakers or hiking boots for the incline.
• Hydration: Bring a refillable water bottle for the walk up.
• Navigation: Download an offline map of South Bohemia.
• Payments: Carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) for small kiosks.
• Documents: Keep your ID or passport handy for car rentals.

How to Get to Lipno Treetop Walkway from Krumlov by Car

Driving is the most flexible way to reach the Lipno Treetop Walkway and Dam. The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the Vltava River valley. You will pass through small villages like Větřní on your way south. This route is approximately 32 kilometers long and takes 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.

1. Step 1: Start in Český Krumlov and head south on Route 160. This takes 5 minutes and costs nothing but fuel. Avoid the narrow residential side streets.
2. Step 2: Continue onto Route 163 toward Lipno nad Vltavou. This section takes about 20 minutes through winding forest roads. Avoid speeding as local police often monitor these curves.
3. Step 3: Follow the signs for the "Stezka korunami stromů" as you enter the town. Look for the large central parking lot labeled P1. Typical parking costs are 150-250 CZK per day.
4. Step 4: Park your car and head to the ticket office. A common mistake is trying to drive directly to the tower; private cars are not allowed on the summit road.
5. Step 5: Choose to ride the cable car or the "Stezkabus" to reach the entrance. This saves you a steep 30-minute uphill hike.

Traveling to Lipno by Bus or Train

If you do not have a car, public transport is a viable option. Buses are generally faster and more direct than trains for this specific route. You can check the latest schedules on national transport sites like Visit Czechia for planning. Most buses depart from the main Český Krumlov bus station (Autobusové nádraží).

Direct buses run several times a day during the peak summer season. The journey takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Tickets usually cost between 50 and 80 CZK. If you choose the train, you must transfer at Rybník station. This can extend your travel time to nearly two hours, so it is less recommended for a quick day trip.

Choosing the Best Way to Travel

Deciding how to get to Lipno Treetop Walkway from Krumlov depends on your group size. Families often find the car most convenient for carrying strollers and extra gear. If you are traveling with children, you might wonder is Lipno Treetop Walkway worth visiting with kids? The answer is usually yes, especially with the slide at the top.

For solo travelers or couples, the bus is the most economical choice. It removes the stress of finding parking during busy weekends. If you have a car, you can easily combine this trip with other nearby sights. However, the bus allows you to enjoy the scenery without focusing on the road. Use the guide below to decide:

• If you want speed: Choose a rental car or taxi.
• If you are on a budget: Take the local bus from the main station.
• If you want a workout: Take the bus and hike from the town to the tower.

Troubleshooting Common Travel Problems

Even the best-planned trips can face minor hurdles. Being aware of potential issues helps you stay relaxed during your excursion. Here are the most frequent problems travelers encounter on this route:

• Parking Full: During July and August, the P1 lot fills by 11:00 AM. Arrive early or use the P2 overflow lot.
• Last Bus: The last bus back to Krumlov often leaves before 6:00 PM. Always double-check the evening schedule upon arrival.
• High Winds: The walkway and the slide may close during extreme weather. Check the local forecast before leaving Krumlov.
• Ticket Lines: Queues at the base can be long. Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the wait.
• GPS Errors: Some GPS units suggest forest tracks. Stick to the main paved roads (160 and 163) at all times.
• Limited Cash: While many places take cards, some small snack stands only accept CZK.